By Liza Soriano

MANILA — Senator Risa Hontiveros has lauded the Philippine National Police for their prompt response in relieving Pasay City police officers from their positions following the discovery of a sex den close to the police station.

Allegedly, a Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) was involved in illegal acts of human trafficking near the police station.

“It’s hard to believe that such blatant torture and prostitution were occurring in a large building, and they were unaware of it? It’s impossible,” Hontiveros remarked.

The Committee on Women will conduct an on-site inspection of the building on Friday to assess the extent of the issue, the senator added.

“We extend our gratitude to the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission, the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking, and the PNP Women and Children Protection Center for leading the raid that exposed the illegal activities in this POGO and for rescuing the victims of human trafficking,” Hontiveros expressed.

Earlier, PNP Spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo stated that the Pasay Police chief is under investigation for possible neglect of duty, considering that this Pogo establishment has been operating for a significant period.

“How is it possible that they did not detect the presence of illegal activities in the area?” Fajardo previously questioned.

(ai/mnm)